The European Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to digitalisation and technological innovation in Spain, allocating €19 million to 10 European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) for the 2026–2028 period and awarding the STEP (Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform) Seal to 17 entities. This support not only endorses the quality and maturity of Spain’s national EDIH network but also paves the way for strategic projects in advanced technologies, dual-use solutions and artificial intelligence applications.
The latest analysis confirms the strength and relevance of the Spanish EDIH network within the European framework. A total of ten hubs have secured direct funding for the next three years, with budgets ranging from €1.9 million to €5.9 million and a combined total of €19,051,354.96. The selected hubs include DIH4CAT, AIR-Andalusia, Aragón EDIH, AsDIH, CIDIHUB, DIGIS3, EDIH Madrid Region, i4CAMHUB, INFAB HUB and InnDIH.
At the same time, 17 entities have received the STEP Seal — an official recognition from the European Commission certifying the quality of their value proposition, organisational robustness and alignment with the EU’s strategic objectives in digital transformation. This distinction strengthens the hubs’ capacity to attract additional funding, forge international partnerships and lead initiatives in key fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, Industry 4.0 and SME digitalisation.
This combined support — through funding and accreditation — underscores the rapid growth of an increasingly professionalised ecosystem that is spearheading the rollout of advanced technological solutions in Spain and throughout Europe.
“This support from the European Commission is not only a recognition of the excellence of Spanish EDIHs, but it also reinforces our capacity to bring artificial intelligence and advanced technologies to the business fabric, especially SMEs and public institutions. We are facing a historic opportunity to consolidate a competitive, innovative digital ecosystem that is fully aligned with Europe’s strategic objectives,” stated representatives of the national EDIH network.
European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) form part of the European Commission’s strategy to drive digitalisation in the Member States, with a particular focus on SMEs and public institutions. EDIHs act as one-stop shops to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies, offering services for experimentation, training and access to funding.
In Spain, the EDIH network has become a European benchmark, with over a dozen hubs receiving funding and 17 entities accredited with the STEP Seal, ensuring their strategic role in the country’s digital transformation.
Next STEPs
The EDIH network will continue working on high-impact projects that promote the uptake of emerging technologies in strategic sectors. In addition, obtaining the STEP Seal opens new avenues for international collaboration and access to complementary European funding.